Brown marmorated stink bug

(Halyomorpha halys)

Overview

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB, Halyomorpha halys) is an invasive insect that has become a serious agricultural pest in both the eastern and western U.S. It feeds on row crops and specialty crops, including apples and grapes. BMSB was discovered in 2010, but the insect has not yet reached damaging population levels. Stink bugs are also a nuisance pest that can invade homes in large number when the weather turns cold.

Research Connection

MITPPC researchers are looking to ward off future harm by establishing early detection protocols and developing resources (like this free app) to help growers and members of the public identify the pest on sight.